Neutrophil Plasticity and NETosis in Tumour Microenvironment: Tumour Evolution and Therapy Resistance

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are web-like formations consisting of DNA-histone complexes and associated proteins released from activated neutrophils. While NET formation plays an important role in innate immunity, it is also associated with the pathogenesis of autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and systemic lupus erythematosus. Research suggests that NETosis (the process of NET formation) may contribute to the progression of cancer and the spread of malignant tumours. A clear link exists between the accumulation of neutrophils in the tumour microenvironment (TME), known as tumour-associated neutrophils (TANs) and NETosis activation in both primary and metastatic tumours. Furthermore, the literature highlights the role of NETs in modulating immune surveillance within the TME. This review aims to analyse the interplay between NETosis and the TME, emphasising its implications for tumour progression, immune evasion and resistance to therapy.